Motatapu
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About the race
The Motatapu Trail Marathon is an off-road marathon held on high-country stations between Wanaka and Arrowtown in the Queenstown Lakes district. The event follows a 42.2 km route that crosses Motatapu, Soho and Glencoe stations, with a cumulative climb of 1050 m and a highest point of 880 m. The course starts on Motatapu Station near Glendhu Bay, Lake Wānaka and finishes at Wilcox Green, Arrowtown. The course includes farm tracks, tussock valleys, multiple river and stream crossings, sections on the Macetown Track and a final series of Arrow River crossings before the finish.
There are four self-service aid stations spaced along the route; aid stations provide toilets, water, PURE electrolyte drink and Clif Power Bars and are cup-free. Competitors must carry mandatory gear at all times; gear requirements reflect alpine weather variability and are strictly enforced. There is no private vehicle or spectator access to the start; all marathon athletes are transported to the start line by bus and a bag drop service transfers non-mandatory items to the finish area. Cut-off times apply at intermediate aid stations and for course completion.
Entry is restricted to athletes aged 18 years or older. The Trail Marathon is an official UTMB Index Race and overall male and female winners receive NZD 500 each. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
